CRIMINAL ATTORNEY HARRISBURG, PA

Criminal Attorney

Criminal Defense

At the Law Offices of Peter J. Russo we have attorneys that focus on criminal defense litigation. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, you will receive the same high level of representation. Facing criminal charges is a stressful situation. We work to help reduce the impact that stress may take by providing our clients with an abundance of information on the criminal court process and regular updates on the progress of the case so that you are never in the dark about what is happening. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the best outcome possible with the least amount of disruption to your life and future.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Defense

Driving under the influence is more than a mere traffic offense. DUIs are vigorously prosecuted and carry significant penalties with far reaching consequences.

In Pennsylvania, the law defines three levels of driving under the influence (DUI). These levels are defined by the drivers blood alcohol level (BAC). The first DUI level is General Impairment, and that occurs when the drivers BAC is between .08 and .099. If the drivers BAC falls between .10 and .159, that is considered a High BAC DUI. A BAC above .16 means the charge will be considered a Highest BAC DUI. A driver who refuses to take a breath or blood test to determine BAC can be charged with the Highest BAC DUI.

The penalties for a driver charged with a first time DUI, depending on Impairment Level, can range from probation and no suspension of driving privileges to 6 months in prison, a year’s suspension of driving privileges and a $5,000 fine.

The penalties for a driver charged with a second time DUI, again depending on Impairment Level, can range from five days in prison, one year suspension of driving privileges, and a $300 fine to 5 years in prison, 18 months suspension of driving privileges and a $10,000 fine.

The penalties for a driver charged with a third DUI, once again depending on Impairment Level, can range from 10 days in prison, one year suspension of driving privileges, and a $500 fine to 5 years in prison, 18 months suspension of driving privileges and a $10,000 fine.

Whether it is your first DUI or you have been charged before you need to be represented by an experienced DUI attorney to ensure that all of your rights and interests are being protected. At the Law Offices of Peter J. Russo you will be represented by an attorney that will provide a high level of personal attention to your case. Our DUI attorneys regularly represent clients throughout Central Pennsylvania and are familiar with the varied policies, procedures and programs in each county. This experience and knowledge will ensure that you are fully informed of all the options available to allow you to make the best decision on how you want your case handled.

Violent Crimes

Crimes of Violence are serious offenses that require the assistance of attorneys with the experience defending clients with those offenses. Our attorneys have successfully defended clients at trial facing serious violent offenses. We will go the extra mile to ensure that you get the best defense available. We work with private investigators and expert witnesses to combat the prosecution’s case.

Drug Offenses

Various considerations go into charges involving drugs. From the type or schedule of the drug, the amount and the activity engaged in relation to the drug. Potential penalties for drug offenses are similarly based on those circumstances. If you are charged with a drug offense you need the assistance of an attorney that is experienced with the intricacies of the drug act and all the consequences that you may face.

Post-Conviction Relief (PCRA)

If you are currently serving a sentence for a criminal conviction and you feel that your attorney was ineffective in representing you, you may have recourse under the Post-Conviction Relief Act. If successful in an action under the Post-Conviction Relief Act you may have certain rights restored to you.You could be entitled to a new trial or your appeal rights reinstated. Our attorneys will provide a thorough review of your case to determine how your case was improperly handled and what remedies may be available to you.

If you’re looking for a Criminal Attorney in Harrisburg, PA, we’re more than prepared to support you and your required needs.